From banned drivers to ultra-short putters and million-dollar deals – 2025 was a big year for golf equipment.
The 2025 golf season delivered plenty of drama on the course, but it was the gear in players’ bags that often stole the spotlight. From controversial rule tests and cutting-edge innovations to bold individual choices, here are the equipment stories that turned heads in 2025.
McIlroy’s Driver Fails the Test
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 PGA Championship campaign began with unexpected equipment drama. His driver failed a USGA test due to excessive face flexibility—caused not by cheating, but by wear from thousands of swings. With the club deemed non-conforming, McIlroy had to switch drivers just before the major began.
TaylorMade Qi4D: New Drivers Hit the Tour Early
Later in the year, TaylorMade made waves with its Qi4D driver series. Spotted in play during the Abu Dhabi playoffs before their official release, the new models—including the Core with four weights and the low-spin LS—highlighted how quickly pros test and adopt new gear. Whether used in competition or not, their early appearance underscored the brand’s close collaboration with tour players.
The 58cm Putter That Turned Heads
Philippe Gariepy, standing 6’4\”, surprised many with a putter shorter than a pitching wedge—just 58 cm long. Inspired by a fun round using a child’s club, he cut down his Scotty Cameron putter. The deep stance helped him read greens better, and the short shaft gave him more control. It was one of the quirkiest gear stories of the year—and surprisingly effective.
Spaun’s Putt Puts L.A.B. Golf in the Spotlight
At the U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun’s birdie on the 18th hole